Relating to the amount of a fine and costs discharged by a defendant while confined in jail or engaged in labor.

HB 2644 changes how misdemeanor defendants who cannot pay fines while jailed or working must satisfy their financial obligations. It raises the daily rate for both labor and confinement from $100 to $200 (or $150 to $200 for discharge under Article 45A.262), meaning defendants must serve roughly twice as many days to pay the same fine. Defendants can pay the remaining balance at any time while working or jailed, earning credit for both their confinement and labor days. The bill applies only to misdemeanor convictions occurring after its effective date.